MUKONO — One person was killed and several students injured on Friday morning after a train collided with a school bus transporting learners of Mwebaze High School, Kakiri, at a railway crossing in Mukono District.
The crash occurred at about 6:45am at Namumira–Bukasa Village in Kyetume Parish, Nakisunga Sub-county, along the Katosi Road, according to Kampala Metropolitan Police.
Police said the bus was carrying students on an educational trip to Jinja District when it was struck by the train at the railway crossing.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SP Rachael Kawala confirmed that a female passenger died at the scene while several students sustained injuries of varying severity.
“Police in Mukono are investigating a fatal road traffic accident that occurred at approximately 6:45am today at Namumira–Bukasa Village, Kyetume Parish, Nakisunga Sub-county, along Katosi Road in Mukono District,” SP Kawala said.
Emergency responders, including police officers, medical personnel and residents, rescued the injured and transported them to Mukono General Referral Hospital and other nearby health facilities for treatment.
By press time, authorities had not released the identity of the deceased pending notification of the next of kin.
Police cordoned off the scene and commenced investigations to establish the circumstances that led to the collision.
“Police have secured the scene and commenced investigations to establish the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the crash. Further updates will be provided as more verified information becomes available,” SP Kawala added.
The accident has renewed concerns over safety at railway crossings, many of which do not have automated barriers, warning lights or crossing attendants.
Road safety experts have consistently urged motorists to stop, look and listen before crossing railway lines, particularly at unmanned crossings.
The Uganda Railways Corporation has in recent years expanded commuter rail services within the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area as part of efforts to improve public transport and reduce road congestion.
Friday’s collision comes amid continued concern over road safety involving school transport, with education stakeholders calling for stricter enforcement of safety standards for vehicles transporting learners, especially during educational trips.
Police have appealed to motorists to exercise caution at railway crossings and comply with traffic regulations as investigations into the crash continue.